Central Coast Zoo Celebrates the Grand Re-Opening of Lemur Habitat - Friday, May 15 | 10-4 pm

The City of Atascadero and the Central Coast Zoo are proud to announce the grand re-opening of its newly reimagined Madagascar Habitat on May 15, 2026, inspired by the extraordinary biodiverse hotspot of Madagascar! The day will kick off with an official ribbon-cutting at the Lemur habitat promptly at 10 am.

This beautifully renovated space now features the return of the striking Red ruffed lemur, a critically endangered species that has not been at the Zoo in over a decade, alongside the zoo’s ever-popular Ring-tailed lemurs! The habitat also features a pair of endangered Madagascar Teals, with the zoo’s Radiated tortoises moving next door. Together, these charismatic animals highlight the unique wildlife found only on the island of Madagascar. This habitat also features all new educational signage as well as Madagascar themed landscaping designed and installed by the University of California Cooperative Extension Master Gardeners. These additions further enhance the Zoo’s commitment to conservation and education surrounding fragile ecosystems.

But that’s not all! The Madagascar Tenrec, a small and fascinating mammal known for its unusual characteristics joins the Zoo’s educational outreach program. Tenrecs look much like hedgehogs but are actually more closely related to animals such as elephants, manatees and aardvarks! The Tenrecs will make special guest appearances at certain times in the zoo.

“This reimagined habitat represents an exciting step forward in our mission to connect our community with wildlife and conservation,” said Dr. Cynthia Stringfield, Zoo Director. “We are thrilled to share these incredible species and their stories with our guests.”

This important project is in memory of a special Zoo Volunteer, Brayden Bronkowski, and the Central Coast Zoo extends its sincere gratitude to all the generous supporters who made this project possible, including the Ludwick Family Foundation, and donors to the Central Coast Zoo Foundation.

The gates open at 10 am on Friday, May 15th with an official ribbon cutting, and we are excited for our guests to experience the wonder of Madagascar right here on the Central Coast PLUS over 250 animals including red pandas, monkeys, fossa, meerkats, parrots, a variety of reptiles and more! Tickets are $15 General (ages 13+), $13 Atascadero Residents, Seniors (65+), Military & families, and Students (ID required for all discounted categories); $10 Child (ages 3-12) and free to children 2 & under. The Zoo is located at Atascadero Lake Park on Hwy 41/Morro Road, one mile west of Hwy 101.

For the operations calendar and more information, visit the Central Coast Zoo website or call (805) 461-5080.